Shaping a Fairer Future: Our Role in Advocating for Just Immigration Policies

In a world marked by migration and displacement, the need for just and humane immigration policies has never been more evident. International Justice and Freedom (IJAF) organization, a dedicated non-profit and non-governmental entity, is committed to participating in the development and advocacy of immigration policies that uphold the rights and dignity of migrants and refugees. Here’s how we contribute to shaping fairer immigration policies. The complexities of migration, driven by various factors, including economic opportunities, conflict, environmental changes, and persecution, have placed the spotlight on the importance of immigration policies that respect the rights and dignity of individuals on the move. IJAF recognizes that fair and humane immigration policies are not only a matter of upholding fundamental human rights but are also essential for addressing the humanitarian challenges posed by migration. We advocate for comprehensive immigration policies that promote justice, inclusivity, and social harmony.

One of our primary areas of engagement involves advocating for policies that provide pathways to legal immigration. Recognizing the human desire for better opportunities and safety, we work with governments, international organizations, and legal experts to develop channels through which individuals can seek refuge or pursue better prospects in a lawful and orderly manner. These pathways are essential for reducing irregular migration and the associated risks and dangers faced by migrants and refugees. We also advocate for the protection and support of asylum seekers and refugees. We engage in initiatives aimed at ensuring that individuals fleeing persecution and conflict have access to fair and efficient asylum procedures. This includes advocating for the elimination of barriers that restrict access to the asylum process and for policies that provide asylum seekers with access to legal representation and humanitarian support during their application process.

Our organization supports initiatives that address the unique needs of vulnerable populations within the migration process, including unaccompanied minors, victims of human trafficking, and individuals with disabilities. We collaborate with organizations and advocates who specialize in the rights and protection of these groups. By addressing their specific needs and vulnerabilities, we aim to ensure that all migrants are treated with dignity, respect, and sensitivity to their unique circumstances. We also place a strong emphasis on advocating for family reunification policies. We recognize the importance of keeping families together, as the separation of family members can have profound emotional and psychological impacts. Our organization supports the streamlining of family reunification processes, ensuring that individuals have the opportunity to be reunited with their loved ones in a timely and efficient manner.

We emphasize the importance of due process and the right to legal representation for migrants during immigration proceedings. IJAF supports efforts to ensure that individuals facing deportation or immigration-related legal processes have access to competent legal counsel, allowing them to present their cases and rights effectively. In response to rising anti-immigrant sentiments and xenophobia, we engage in advocacy efforts that aim to counteract discrimination and promote inclusivity. We advocate for policies and practices that foster empathy and understanding toward newcomers and refugees, while working to dismantle negative stereotypes and discriminatory policies. Our organization recognizes the importance of addressing the detention of migrants and the treatment of those awaiting immigration decisions. We advocate for detention policies that prioritize the rights and dignity of individuals, seeking alternatives to detention and improved living conditions for those held in immigration detention facilities.

IJAF recognizes the importance of addressing the global migration and displacement crisis in a coordinated and cooperative manner. We engage with international bodies and forums, such as the United Nations, to advocate for a harmonized approach to addressing migration. We believe that a multilateral response is essential to ensure that no country bears an unfair burden and that the rights and dignity of migrants and refugees are protected universally. Our organization is also committed to addressing the root causes of migration and displacement, which often include conflict, persecution, environmental changes, and economic disparities. We support initiatives that promote peace, development, and poverty alleviation in regions prone to conflict and crisis. By addressing these underlying factors, we aim to reduce the need for individuals to leave their homes in search of safety and better opportunities.

IJAF emphasizes the importance of providing integration support to newcomers. Fair immigration policies not only focus on entry but also on facilitating the successful integration of migrants into their host societies. We support initiatives that offer language and cultural integration programs, educational and vocational training, and access to social services to help migrants adapt to their new communities and become contributing members of society.

Our organization promotes labor migration policies that safeguard the rights and well-being of migrant workers. We advocate for policies that prevent exploitation, ensure fair wages, and provide access to healthcare and social protection for all migrant laborers. We work to ensure that migrant workers have legal protections and the ability to seek redress in cases of labor rights violations. In response to the increasing number of individuals who become internally displaced within their own countries, IJAF advocates for policies that protect the rights and well-being of these internally displaced persons (IDPs). We support initiatives that ensure that IDPs have access to shelter, food, medical care, and education, and that they can return home in safety and dignity when the conditions allow.